Comprehensive inpatient treatment for the young adult patient.

The young adult chronic patient is one of the most rapidly growing populations of psychiatric patients in the United States. These patients often lack internal controls, exhibit suicidal or assaultive behavior, or suffer from substance abuse, and they frequently require inpatient care. This paper describes a comprehensive inpatient program for this population which emphasizes an integration of psychotherapy, vocational rehabilitation, socialization, and unit structure. A blend of psychodynamic and behavioral principles is employed to assist the young adult in achieving viable adult autonomy.